To keep the building's HVAC energy consumption to a minimum the structure is tightly buttoned up, with plenty of insulation employed throughout. The front and rear walls are steel stud walls designed and built to avoid the thermal bridging — the walls use both rigid and spray in insulation and have an R value of 47.5.

The building at 253 Pacific reclaims a narrow space of 25 feet wide by 100 feet long (the building is 65 ft deep) that was once occupied by a one-story car garage. Though the site seems quite compact, the units’ interiors feel spacious and airy given the high ceilings and incredible abundance of natural light.

Inside, floor to ceiling windows and a smart allocation of space allow light to pour through the building, even into the deepest corners. James Cleary Architecture wanted to be sure that no artificial lighting would be needed during the day. Once the sun goes down, most of the lighting is either LED or CFL. Small details such as the cutout between the kitchen and the stairs better enable communication between spaces and those individuals inhabiting them, providing an opportunity for unexpected experiences and conversations.

Each of the three units boasts its own private outdoor space — something rarely afforded to those who opt to live in NYC. The lucky penthouse owner gets a green roof planted with flowers and other flora that are local and drought resistant. So even if the occupant of this space ends up being black thumb, he or she can rest easy knowing that it’s foolproof and will flourish.